Evaluating cardiovascular associations to affective states in Professional Drivers: A study of Australian truck and train drivers
- Publication Type:
- Thesis
- Issue Date:
- 2022
Open Access
Copyright Clearance Process
- Recently Added
- In Progress
- Open Access
This item is open access.
ππ»ππΏπΌπ±ππ°ππΆπΌπ»: Train and truck drivers experience a myriad of unique occupational workplace factors, such as monotonous driving conditions, long hours spent sitting, the necessity of strict mental alertness, workplace social isolation and the potential for βperson under vehicleβ events. These conditions have been postulated to contribute to a high incidence of health conditions such as depression, anxiety and cardiovascular disease (CVD) amongst this population. Although often occurring independently of one another, the link between depression and cardiovascular risk is well established.
π π²ππ΅πΌπ±π: 120 professional drivers (60 truck drivers, 60 train drivers) were recruited from the local community. Participants complete a battery of mood state questionnaires to assess levels of negative mood states such as depressive and anxious symptomology, and questionnaires to quantitate lifestyle and workplace risk factors. Participants then completed a baseline (resting) and active (driving) task while concurrent ECG data was collected to obtain HRV parameters.
π₯π²πππΉππ: Truck drivers reported significantly more risk factors for chronic diseases, such as smoking, alcohol use, sedentary activity levels and stress, than the train driving cohort. Truck drivers also reported higher levels of all negative states, including depressive and anxious symptomology, stress, fatigue and anger.
ππΌπ»π°πΉπππΆπΌπ»: This study highlights important workplace factors that may be linked with negative mental states, and their potential implications within the workplace. The promotion of improved mental health within this occupation would not only improve the health of the individual drivers but may also mitigate mental health associated absenteeism and improve commuter safety. Buddy driving systems, regular workplace ToolBox talks and forums and a commitment to mental awareness are strategies that have been successfully employed in other industries. Given the societal responsibility of professional drivers, protecting and promoting the psychosocial health of these individuals is paramount to not only a healthy workforce, but a safe community. This study is important, as the psychophysiological health of Australiaβs professional drivers has been somewhat overlooked in the past. Given the large number of workers employed within this industry, and the potential personal and public implications of a suddenly unwell driver, it is vital that policies and workplace practices are designed to optimise the health of these individuals. Collectively, the findings from the present study provide a novel perspective on the physiological and psychological health of Australian professional drivers.
Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: